Pakistan avoids defeat in the Karachi test match against New Zealand after the 1st test ended in a draw on December 30. This is Pakistan’s 2nd draw in 12 matches in the World Test Championship 2021-23. New Zealand also scored their first draw in WTC 2021-23. This draw ended any outside chances of both Pakistan and New Zealand qualifying for the final of the world test championship. Pakistan and New Zealand are placed in the 7th and 8th positions respectively in the WTC points table 2021-23.
The Karachi test match pitch was very flat and for most of the time, it seemed that the match was heading towards a tame draw. However, in the final hour and a half of the test match, it sprung into action after Pakistan declared at 311 for 8. The declaration meant New Zealand was left to chase 138 runs in 15 overs in fading lights. New Zealand started on a positive note and was 61 for 1 after 7 and a half overs. However, fading lights forced the umpires to call off the game and 4 points were awarded to each team.
Pakistan won the toss on day 1 and opted to bat first. A 161 from Babar Azam, 103 from Agha Salman and a counterattacking 86 from the comeback man – Sarfaraz Ahmed helped Pakistan 438. New Zealand replied with 612 for 9 declared after a 5th double test century from Kane Williamson. In addition, Latham, Conway and Sodhi chipped in with half-centuries that helped the Kiwis take a lead of 174 runs.
The game was in Pakistan’s court after the completion of the 1st innings of both sides. However, the Pakistani batters played slowly and left their opposition with 138 runs to get from 15 overs on the final day.
Kane Williamson was declared the player of the match for his unbeaten knock of 200. Ish Sodhi was another contender for the award with a dogged 65 and 6 wickets in the match.
The 2nd test of the series will be played at the same venue from January 03, 2023 onwards.
